Osteoarthritis is a range of musculoskeletal conditions that result in both a structural and functional failure of joints1 . Following failure of the joint, there is a loss of cartilage and a degeneration of the joint. This progression may result in pain and disability2. Any synovial joint in the body may be susceptible to Osteoarthritis but is most common in the hips, hands and knees2.

Knee Osteoarthritis is one of the most common musculoskeletal diseases worldwide. In the elderly, it is the leading cause of disability4. Knee Osteoarthritis affects approximately 6% of adults aged 30 years and 10% of people aged over 65 years worldwide3. Research suggests that as population groups age, then the incidence of Osteoarthritis will increase and by 2020 current figures are expected to double6.

Are there any interventions to improving quality of life for those suffering from Knee Osteoarthritis?[edit]

While there is no known cure for knee Osteoarthritis, the main focus of treatment is to improve joint function and mobility, decrease pain and slow the progression of the disease.5. There are three categories of interventions:

The following are a list of recommendations for an individual with Knee Osteoarthritis, starting or participating in a resistance regimen:

Although further research needs to be conducted to determine the best type of resistance training, the use of elastic bands may be the best form of resistance training for patients suffering from Osteoarthritis;

Knee Osteoarthritis especially in the elderly causes large levels of pain and decreases physical function in the knee joint. This leads to an inability to perform daily tasks which decreases the patients quality of life. Interventions such as resistance exercise when performed correctly and safely can slow the progression of the disease, improve pain levels and improve physical function leading to many physical and and quality of life benefits.

2. Guccione, A.A. et al (1994) The effects of specific medical conditions on the functional limitations of elders in the Framingham Study. American Journal of Public Health. 84(3): 351-358) Sited: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8129049